What’s the Difference and Why Does It Matter?

One of the most common questions we receive is:

“Is all Colorbond the same?”

The short answer is no.

Many people use the term “Chinese Colorbond” when referring to imported colour-coated steel fencing. However, it’s important to understand that COLORBOND® is a registered Australian brand manufactured by BlueScope Steel.

Imported colour-coated steel may look similar at first glance, but it is not genuine COLORBOND® steel.

Understanding the difference can help you make a more informed decision when investing in a new fence.

What Is Genuine COLORBOND® Steel?

Genuine COLORBOND® steel is manufactured by BlueScope in Australia and has been specifically developed to withstand Australia’s harsh climate.

Every sheet undergoes extensive research, testing and quality control before it reaches manufacturers like Metroll.

The result is a product trusted by Australian homeowners, builders and fencing contractors for decades.

What Do People Mean by “Chinese Colorbond”?

Many imported steel fencing products are manufactured overseas using colour-coated steel that resembles genuine COLORBOND®.

While some imported products may perform well, they are not genuine COLORBOND® steel and may use different steel grades, coating systems and manufacturing processes.

That’s why it’s important to ask exactly what product you’re being quoted.

Why Crawfords Fencing Chooses Metroll

At Crawfords Fencing, we proudly install fencing manufactured by Metroll using genuine Australian-made COLORBOND® steel.

We’ve chosen Metroll because we’ve found their products to be consistent, reliable and manufactured to a high standard.

After installing fencing for many years, we believe using quality materials is just as important as quality workmanship.

A premium installation deserves premium materials.

Why Material Quality Matters

A fence is exposed to:

• Sunlight.

• Rain.

• Wind.

• Temperature changes.

• Moisture.

• Daily expansion and contraction.

Quality steel coatings play a significant role in helping protect the fence over many years of exposure.

While two fences may look identical on the day they’re installed, the true difference is often seen years later.

Ask These Questions Before Buying

Before accepting a quotation, ask your fencing contractor:

• Is this genuine COLORBOND® steel?

• Who manufactured the steel?

• Who manufactured the fencing?

• What material warranty applies?

• What workmanship warranty do you provide?

• Can you provide product documentation if requested?

A reputable contractor should be happy to answer these questions.

Why We Don’t Compromise

At Crawfords Fencing, we don’t build fences simply to look good on the day they’re installed.

We build fences with the goal of providing years of reliable performance.

That’s why we’ve chosen to work with suppliers we trust and materials we’ve had confidence in across countless installations.

As Director Tyrone Crawford often says:

“A fence is only as good as the materials behind it. Great workmanship deserves great products.”

Genuine Materials. Professional Installation.

At Crawfords Fencing, we combine quality workmanship with genuine Australian-made materials to deliver fences built for Australian conditions.

Whether you’re installing a new Colorbond fence, timber fence, gate or retaining wall, we’re committed to helping you choose the right product for your property—not simply the cheapest option.

Contact Crawfords Fencing today for a free, no-obligation quote.